Comparative Phenolic Composition, Antioxidant, Antimalarial, and Erythroprotective Activities of Leaves, Flowers, and Fruits of Ora-pro-nobis (Pereskia aculeata).

Ora-pro-nobis (OPN) is an unconventional food plant rich in polyphenols, but there is a lack of scientific evidence regarding its health benefits and safety, which is concerning, particularly due to its commercialization in nutraceuticals and supplements. This study aimed to evaluate the phenolic profile and in vitro bioactivities of extracts from the leaves, fruits, and flowers of OPN. Phenolic composition and in vitro antioxidant, antimalarial, cytotoxic, and antihemolytic potential were evaluated. Rutin and ellagic acid were the primary compounds. The flower extract was the richest in polyphenols and exhibited the greatest chemical antioxidant activity. The samples inhibited lipoperoxidation and NO generation in a dose-dependent manner, and exhibited low cytotoxicity in normal and cancer cells, cellular antioxidant effects, and antimalarial potential. OPN leaves and flowers may be suitable for developing formulations with antioxidant, antihemolytic, and antimalarial potential; however, in vivo assays are required to confirm these properties.